May 28th Fishing Report
The bite on Lake Winnie has remained consistently strong. Anglers who incorporate side imaging into their arsenal for locating fish can efficiently cover vast areas and pinpoint specific spots for targeting walleye on the lake. With water temperatures steadily rising towards the 60-degree mark, anglers are adapting and refining their techniques. This week, many fish have been successfully caught using bobber techniques with leeches and minnows, while long-lining lighter weight spinner rigs is also becoming increasingly effective. Remember, if you're in the vicinity of fish but they're not biting, don't hesitate to switch up your approach. Anglers who remain flexible in their techniques are more likely to capitalize on opportunities, especially when they know the fish are present but reluctant to bite.
Nevertheless, the majority of anglers are still finding success with jig and minnow techniques. Spottail shiners have been abundant this year and are proving to be an irresistible presentation for walleye. Despite the challenges of keeping shiners alive, there are simple tricks to prolong their lifespan. Regularly removing dead minnows from your tank can reduce stress among the live ones, while adding rocks and small bits of wood to the tank provides hiding spots and reduces stress levels. Additionally, asking the bait shop for some of their water can help maintain the health of your minnows, particularly if you're dealing with chlorinated water at home.
The current locations shared last week continue to hold a large number of fish. For anglers looking to explore new territory, consider a couple of key factors. Points, flats, and shoreline areas with sustained wind blowing into them for several days tend to concentrate baitfish and position walleyes favorably. Also, pay attention to water clarity, as different parts of the lake may exhibit varying levels of clarity. Opting for slightly stained water can increase your chances of success, particularly since fish are still relatively shallow. Depths of 8-16 feet are proving to be productive areas to focus on. Photo Courtesy of Fishing Guide Captain Jeff Johnson of Northern Drift Outfitters.
